A North Woolwich combat sports academy working with disadvantaged youngsters has been awarded £2.2 million of National Lottery funding.

Fight for Peace will use the money to train groups on preventing youth violence.

Over the next three years, the charity in Woodman Street will teach up to 25 community organisations across the UK, who will become members of its Fight for Peace Alliance.

“So far we have trained 150 organisations around the world and we are delighted that, thanks to the Big Lottery Fund grant, we are now able to expand our Alliance in the UK, supporting more organisations and young people in communities affected by crime and violence, while also furthering the support we offer to those already working with us,” said founder and director Luke Dowdney.

The charity will also work with Laureus Sport for Good Foundation to expand its alternative education Pathways programme, which helps young people without qualifications enter further education or the job market.